Manchester City midfielder Rodri underwent back surgery earlier this week and is expected to return to Manchester next month, club officials have confirmed. Despite ongoing speculation linking the Spanish international to a potential move to Real Madrid, Manchester City’s manager Enzo Maresca emphasized that such reports remain unsubstantiated.

Rodri, whose contract with Manchester City expires next summer, has yet to agree to terms on a contract extension. Real Madrid’s head coach, Jose Mourinho, has expressed interest in bringing the midfielder to the Bernabeu, aiming to reunite him with former City teammate Bernardo Silva. However, any transfer for Rodri could hinge on Real Madrid’s ability to offload midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.

Speaking on the situation, Maresca underlined the player's importance to City’s squad, particularly given the demands of a congested fixture schedule. “Any manager in the world wants Rodri, so it’s important for me, for the club and for everyone,” Maresca said. “But now he needs a holiday. He’s very important when we need to play every three days.”

Maresca added that the main focus for Rodri following the completion of the season had been the World Cup, and that the player is currently enjoying some rest before rejoining the squad. The manager also noted that no contract discussions have taken place recently, with talks regarding Rodri described as “just speculation.”

In addition to addressing Rodri’s situation, Maresca confirmed Manchester City will remain active in the transfer market ahead of the new season. The club is reportedly pursuing Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi to strengthen their midfield options. Furthermore, Marseille’s Geronimo Rulli is being considered as a potential backup goalkeeper to Gianluigi Donnarumma, especially after James Trafford finalized his move to Leeds United.